Leadership and Submission: Becoming One

Today's Scripture"As the Scriptures say, 'A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.'" Ephesians 5:31 NLT (Also read Matthew 19:5-6)

Thoughts for TodayBecoming one in Christ is God's plan for husbands and wives. This spiritual and physical union is a special miracle of God.

Today's scripture states that a man leaves his father and mother to be joined to his wife. The "leaving behind" is often difficult for the man and the woman when it comes to baggage like unhealthy behavior patterns, neglect, abuse, and lack of role models. In many cases, individuals bring this kind of baggage to the marriage, counting on their new relationship to "fix" the hurt. In actuality, bringing this kind of baggage to the marriage can hurt the relationship and hinder the process of truly becoming one.

Consider this We all need to turn to Jesus for healing from these kinds of problems. Are there areas of baggage that you need to allow God to help you with in the process of "becoming one"? Are you ready to let him help?

PrayerFather, I know I brought some things into my marriage that I should have dealt with before getting married. I guess I really did think that this marriageand my spousewould change everything. But I realize now that my answer can only be found in Jesus. Forgive me for waiting until now to turn to you. Thank you for loving me. Help me through this process of healing. Help my spouse and me grow in our relationship and to truly be one in Christ. In Jesus' name

These thoughts were drawn from

Committed Couples: God's Plan for Marriage & the Family by Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee. Whether in a private or group setting, couples will be encouraged spiritually and romantically as they research biblical principles that affirm their vows. This book can help every married couple grow spiritually and emotionally in their relationship. It is also a great help for engaged-to-be-married couples.

Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website?
Learn More

Today's Living Free News

Living Free Outcomes Results

Please click below for Living Free Outcomes Research:

The data confirms the effectiveness of Living Free because of what God is doing through His Word, His Spirit and His people. The data reflects that no matter the location or facilitator, lives are being transformed and families restored by God through many local Living Free and Living Free Community ministries. We give God all the glory!

Lead Pastor of Megachurch Endorses Living Free

Click here to listen in on Lead Pastor John Lindell of James River Assembly in Ozark, Missouri sharing the reason why the Living Free discipleship program works.

To hear the full message, go to www.jamesriver.org and click on the "Messages and Resources" menu and find the message titled "Faith and Freedom."

Testimony from Rwanda

God does heal the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds (Psalm 147:3). Read the following testimony we received today regarding today's Living Free Every Day devotion provided by Living Free ministries.

"Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Thank you so much for the message of forgiveness. Jesus Christ recommend us to forgive if we want to be forgiven. For us Rwandans, we are experiencing forgiveness and now we are free from the bondage of unforgiveness. When you forgive, even physically, you are released. I am telling you this because I have forgiven those who killed my parents and relatives. But, ask to be led by the Holy Spirit who will enable you to forgive those who sin against you."

Blessings,

Jean de Dieu

Rwanda- Central Africa

Click here if you would like to subscribe to the Living Free Every Day devotions and start receiving them every weekday in your email inbox.

May 2013 Message from Living Free President

Please read an important message from Dan Strickland, President of Living Free by clicking here.

Upcoming Training Opportunities

Interested in learning more about Living Free Ministries and how God can use you to impact your community? Check out upcoming training opportunities by clicking here.